Photo Copyright Matthew Jordan Smith

In the latest episode of “Advancing Your Photography,” Marc Silber sits down with successful fashion and portrait photographer Matthew Jordan Smith to discuss his unique style, as well as his tips and techniques on how to make people look and feel beautiful.

With a vibrant style and genuine enthusiasm for the art of photography, Matthew Jordan Smith has created beautiful images for magazines like Elle, Essence and Brides. He has done ad campaigns for Olay, and his list of subjects reads like a who’s-who of Hollywood’s most recognizable celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey, Tyra Banks, Mandy Moore and Samuel L. Jackson.

The allure of Matthew’s work centers on his ability to connect with people and identify what makes them beautiful. This unique skill is what lends his photographs genuine emotion, and his dedication to building a relationship with every person he shoots is central to what he sees as the foundation of great portrait photography.

Watch the interview and you’ll learn all about:

1. The Importance of Research — Before every shoot, Matthew makes sure he knows exactly how he wants to photograph a particular subject. That means looking at how the person has been photographed in the past and making notes about what works and what doesn’t. Listen as Matthew talks about other tips he uses when setting up a shoot.

2. Imitate the Sun –The single most important technique Matthew uses in lighting for a shoot is to use the sun as your guide. In the interview Matthew talks about which positions the sun is at its most useful, and how you can use this knowledge when setting up your own shoot.

3. Developing Your Own Creative Stamp — After all the tricks of the trade are mastered, Matthew says, the only way to become a great photographer is to truly be secure in who you are. Watch as Matthew describes why this is key to stamping your work with a unique creative signature.

To see more of Matthew Jordan Smith’s tips and techniques on how to improve your portrait and fashion photography, watch the latest episode of “Advancing Your Photography” with Marc Silber. Also, be sure to check out more of Matthew’s amazing work on his site mjs-exp.com.

We’d also like to send a special thanks to Fanlala.com for access to their video of the MJS shoot.